Slow Cooker Butter Chicken: A Creamy and Savory Ninja Slow Cooker Delight 🍛🧈🔥
1. Introduction
Welcome to the ultimate guide on making Slow Cooker Butter Chicken. This delicious dish is a perfect example of how chicken recipes can be transformed into a creamy, flavorful masterpiece using your slow cooker. Whether you’re seeking healthy options with vegetable soups or hearty slow cooker meals, this recipe fits seamlessly into your collection of Ninja Slow Cooker recipes. It’s ideal for busy weeknights and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Get ready to enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality slow cooker dinner that everyone will love.
2. Ingredients for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
- 1 ½ lbs chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
- 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a healthier twist
- 3 tablespoons butter or ghee
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
For an enhanced cooking experience, consider using the Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker to prep ingredients quickly, or a Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master for chopping vegetables with ease.
3. Preparing the Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
3.1. Sauté Spices and Butter
Start by melting the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, to bring out the spices’ aroma and flavor.
3.2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the sautéed spices and butter into your Crock-Pot. Add chicken pieces, tomato sauce, and heavy cream. Stir everything well to combine all flavors evenly.
3.3. Cook on Low
Set your Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker to low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process tenderizes the chicken and melds the flavors beautifully, making it an ideal easy slow cooker chicken recipe for busy days.
4. Serving Your Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Once cooked, garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. Serve your slow cooker butter chicken over steamed rice, naan bread, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of sides like Mediterranean soup or Southwest rice skillet.
5. Storage Tips
Leftover butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months. When reheating, use a microwave or stove, adding a splash of cream or water to restore creaminess.
For meal prep, consider using the EUHOMY Portable Rapid Ice Maker to keep beverages chilled, or the King Arthur Baking Ultimate Bread Baker’s Cookbook to prepare perfect bread to accompany your meal.
6. Tips to Perfect Your Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra flavor and juiciness.
- Adjust spiciness by adding more or less paprika and garam masala.
- For a richer sauce, add a splash of full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream.
- Serve with a side of vegetable soup to add more nutrients to your meal.
7. Variations and Customizations
Feeling adventurous? You can customize this slow cooker dinner by adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers. Swap out chicken for turkey or tofu to make it vegetarian-friendly. For smokier flavor, incorporate a touch of Italian sausage-seasoned spices or a dollop of BBQ sauce for extra richness.
8. Frequently Asked Questions about Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Q1. Can I make this recipe healthier?
Absolutely! Use light coconut milk or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, and opt for chicken thighs for juiciness and flavor while maintaining a healthier profile.
Q2. How long does it take to cook butter chicken in a slow cooker?
Cooking on low takes approximately 6-8 hours, while cooking on high takes about 3-4 hours. The longer cook time ensures tender, flavorful chicken.
Q3. What are some good sides to serve with slow cooker butter chicken?
Pair it with fluffy steamed rice, naan bread, or flavorful vegetable sides like Tuscan vegetable soup for a complete meal.
9. Conclusion
In summary, Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is an incredibly versatile and delicious recipe that highlights the ease of chicken recipes made in versatile slow cookers. Its rich, savory flavor makes it a favorite for family dinners or meal prep. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a flavorful, comforting slow cooker dinner that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to explore other chicken pot pie recipes and expand your culinary repertoire with our easy and healthy options. Happy cooking!
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Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Discover the rich, creamy, and savory flavor of Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, a perfect comfort food meal made effortlessly in your slow cooker. This easy recipe combines tender chicken with a fragrant butter and spice sauce, offering a restaurant-quality dish suitable for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Enjoy this versatile and flavorful Indian-inspired dish served over rice or naan for a satisfying feast.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
- 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a healthier twist
- 3 tablespoons butter or ghee
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Start by melting the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Transfer the spices and melted butter into your slow cooker. Add chicken chunks, tomato sauce, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine all flavors.
- Set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Cook until the chicken is tender and flavors meld nicely.
- Once cooked, garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot over steamed rice, naan, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Notes
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
- Adjust spiciness by varying the amount of paprika and garam masala.
- Add a splash of full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream for a creamier sauce.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro for an authentic touch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Indian-inspired